Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, 24121 Bergamo, Italy (April 2019)

Lombardy

Welcome to Italy in Photos, a mesmerizing visual experience that unveils the hidden treasures of Lombardy: – Lombardy, is an administrative region of Italy that covers 23,844 km² and is in the northern-central part of the country. It has a population of about 10 million people, constituting more than one-sixth of Italy’s population. The region is bordered by Switzerland to the north and by the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna to the south, Veneto to the east, and Piedmont to the west. Lombardy is home to Milan, the largest metropolitan area in Italy and among the largest in the European Union. The region is also known for its beautiful lakes, including Lake Como and Lake Garda, which are popular tourist destinations. Lombardy is also home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including eleven in total. The region has a rich history and culture. It was once ruled by the Germanic Lombard raiders who had controlled most of early Christian Italy since their invasion of Byzantine Italy in CE 568 until the fall of Pavia on the river Ticino in CE 774 by the Frankish Charlemagne on the Pope’s behalf. As such, “Lombardy” and “Italy” were almost interchangeable; by the mid-8th century, the Lombards ruled everywhere except for the Papal possessions around Rome, roughly modern Lazio and northern Umbria, Venice and some Byzantine possessions in the south, southern Apulia and Calabria; some coastal settlements including Amalfi, Gaeta, Naples and Sorrento; Sicily and Sardinia; their culture is foundational to Italy in the Middle Ages.

Lombardy is also known for its cuisine. The region is famous for its risotto alla milanese, a saffron-flavoured rice dish that is typically served with ossobuco (braised veal shanks). Other popular dishes include cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlets), polenta (cornmeal mush), and panettone (a sweet bread loaf that is traditionally eaten during Christmas). In terms of tourism, Lombardia has a lot to offer. Visitors can explore Milan’s many museums and art galleries or take a stroll through one of its many parks. The region’s lakes are also popular tourist destinations, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and hiking. Lombardia is also home to many historic towns and cities, including Bergamo, Brescia, Cremona, Mantua, and Pavia. Visitors can explore these towns’ beautiful architecture and monuments or take a trip to one of Lombardia’s many vineyards. Lombardia is a beautiful region with a rich history and culture. It offers something for everyone, from Milan’s museums and art galleries to Lake Como’s stunning scenery. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just relaxing by the lake, Lombardia has something to offer. Let our captivating photographs transport you to Lombardia, capturing the essence of this extraordinary region. Italy in Photos – preserving the beauty of Italy, one image at a time.

The Provinces of Lombardy

Bergamo: The Province of Bergamo is situated in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is renowned for its remarkable geographical, historical, and cultural diversity. Extending from the flat and fertile Po Valley up to the rugged peaks of the Orobie Alps, the province encompasses landscapes that range from agricultural plains to alpine valleys, offering a rich natural heritage shaped by centuries of human settlement.

The city of Bergamo serves as the provincial capital and is distinguished by its rare urban structure, divided between the historic Città Alta and the modern Città Bassa. The upper city, enclosed by well-preserved Venetian walls recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to medieval streets, Renaissance palaces, and important religious monuments. Surrounding the capital, numerous towns and villages reflect strong local identities rooted in craftsmanship, agriculture, and mountain traditions.

Economically, the Province of Bergamo is one of the most productive areas in Lombardy, with a solid industrial base complemented by agriculture and a thriving tourism sector. Local cuisine, traditional festivals, and a strong sense of community further define the character of the province. Together, natural beauty and historical depth make Bergamo a significant and attractive territory within Lombardy.

Brescia: The Province of Brescia is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is one of the largest and most varied provinces in the country. Its territory stretches from the fertile plains of the Po Valley to the alpine landscapes of the Adamello and the pre-Alps, encompassing an exceptional range of natural environments. This geographical diversity has played a key role in shaping Brescia’s economic strength, cultural richness, and long history.

The city of Brescia, the provincial capital, is a place of ancient origins, with archaeological remains from Roman times standing alongside medieval and Renaissance architecture. The historic centre, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Roman monuments, reflects the city’s importance as a crossroads of civilizations. Beyond the capital, the province includes renowned natural attractions such as Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, and the Franciacorta area, famous for its vineyards and sparkling wines.

The Province of Brescia is a major industrial and manufacturing centre, particularly in metallurgy and mechanical engineering, while agriculture and tourism continue to play a vital role. Local traditions, cuisine, and craftsmanship express a strong connection between land and community. Together, innovation, heritage, and landscape define Brescia as a dynamic and influential province within Lombardy.

Como: The Province of Como is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is renowned for its elegant landscapes, historical heritage, and long-standing cultural traditions. Nestled between the foothills of the Alps and the plains of Lombardy, the province is best known for Lake Como, one of Europe’s most celebrated lakes, whose distinctive shape and scenic beauty have attracted visitors for centuries.

The city of Como, the provincial capital, has ancient origins dating back to Roman times and features a refined historic centre marked by impressive architecture. Landmarks such as the Como Cathedral, the old city walls, and neoclassical villas testify to the city’s artistic and historical importance. Across the province, picturesque lakeside towns, hillside villages, and mountain communities preserve a strong sense of local identity and tradition.

Historically, the Province of Como has been closely associated with silk production, an industry that influenced its economy and craftsmanship for generations and helped shape its international reputation. Today, tourism plays a central role, supported by cultural events, outdoor activities, and high-quality hospitality. Agriculture, small-scale industry, and services complement the local economy. Combining natural elegance with cultural depth, the Province of Como stands as one of Lombardy’s most distinctive and attractive territories.

Cremona: The Province of Cremona is situated in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is known for its rich artistic heritage, agricultural tradition, and strong cultural identity. Lying predominantly in the fertile Po Valley, the province is characterized by flat landscapes crossed by the River Po and its tributaries, which have long supported farming, trade, and settlement.

The city of Cremona, the provincial capital, enjoys worldwide recognition as the historic heart of violin making. Renowned luthiers such as Antonio Stradivari, Giuseppe Guarneri, and Andrea Amati established a tradition of craftsmanship that continues today and has been acknowledged by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. The city’s skyline is dominated by the Torrazzo, one of the tallest brick bell towers in Europe, alongside the Cathedral and Baptistery, forming an outstanding medieval architectural complex.

Beyond the capital, the province includes small towns and rural communities that reflect a deep connection to agriculture, particularly dairy farming and food production. Local specialties such as torrone, cheeses, and cured meats highlight the area’s gastronomic excellence. While agriculture remains central, industry and services also contribute to the local economy. Balancing tradition and innovation, the Province of Cremona represents a distinctive and culturally significant part of Lombardy.

Lecco: The Province of Lecco is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is distinguished by its striking natural scenery and strong cultural identity. Set between the eastern shores of Lake Como and the dramatic peaks of the pre-Alps, the province offers a landscape shaped by mountains, water, and historic settlements that blend harmoniously with the environment.

The city of Lecco, the provincial capital, lies at the south-eastern branch of Lake Como and is closely associated with Italian literary heritage, particularly through the works of Alessandro Manzoni, whose novel I Promessi Sposi is set in the area. The historic centre, lakeside promenades, and surrounding mountains such as the Resegone create a unique balance between urban life and nature.

Throughout the province, small towns and mountain villages preserve long-standing traditions linked to craftsmanship, industry, and alpine culture. Historically, Lecco developed as an important industrial and manufacturing area, especially in metalworking, while today tourism and outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and water sports play an increasing role in the local economy.

Cultural events, local cuisine, and a strong sense of community contribute to the province’s distinctive character. Combining literary significance, industrial heritage, and exceptional landscapes, the Province of Lecco stands as a dynamic and appealing territory within Lombardy.

Lodi: The Province of Lodi is situated in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is characterized by its strong agricultural tradition and quiet historical charm. Located in the heart of the Po Valley, the province is defined by flat, fertile landscapes crossed by rivers and irrigation canals that have supported farming activities for centuries.

The city of Lodi, the provincial capital, has medieval origins and a well-preserved historic centre. Its main square, Piazza della Vittoria, is one of the most elegant arcaded squares in Lombardy and reflects the city’s role as a commercial and civic hub since the Middle Ages. Churches, palaces, and remnants of ancient fortifications testify to Lodi’s long and complex history.

Agriculture remains the cornerstone of the local economy, with dairy farming playing a particularly important role. The province is well known for its production of high-quality cheeses and other traditional food products that highlight the area’s connection to the land. Alongside agriculture, small and medium-sized industries and services contribute to economic stability and development.

Despite its proximity to major urban centres such as Milan, the Province of Lodi has maintained a distinct identity rooted in rural culture, community life, and local traditions. This balance between productivity, heritage, and landscape makes Lodi a unique and meaningful part of Lombardy.

Mantova: The Province of Mantova is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is renowned for its exceptional artistic heritage, historical significance, and refined cultural landscape. Lying largely in the flat lands of the Po Valley, the province is shaped by rivers, lakes, and cultivated countryside that have supported settlement and agriculture since ancient times.

The city of Mantova, the provincial capital, is one of Italy’s great Renaissance centres and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ruled for centuries by the Gonzaga family, the city preserves extraordinary architectural and artistic masterpieces, including the Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Te, and numerous churches and civic buildings. Its urban layout, surrounded by artificial lakes formed by the River Mincio, creates a unique and harmonious setting.

Beyond the capital, the province is dotted with historic towns, rural villages, and agricultural estates that reflect a deep connection to the land. Farming, particularly cereal cultivation and livestock breeding, remains central to the local economy, supported by food production and related industries. Cultural festivals, music, and traditional cuisine further enrich local life.

Balancing artistic excellence with agricultural productivity, the Province of Mantova represents a distinctive and highly valued part of Lombardy’s historical and cultural heritage.

Milan: The Province of Milan is situated in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and has long been one of the country’s most influential territories from an economic, cultural, and social perspective. Historically cantered on the city of Milan, the province developed as a vital crossroads of trade, industry, and innovation within the Po Valley.

The city of Milan, the provincial capital, is internationally recognized as a global hub for finance, fashion, design, and technology. Its rich historical heritage is reflected in landmarks such as the Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s *The Last Supper*. Surrounding the capital, the province includes numerous municipalities that have grown alongside Milan’s expansion, forming a dense and dynamic urban landscape.

Economically, the Province of Milan has been a driving force in Lombardy and Italy as a whole, with a strong concentration of businesses, services, and infrastructure. At the same time, cultural institutions, universities, and research centres contribute to its intellectual vitality. Despite intense urbanization, parks, canals, and historic towns preserve traces of the area’s past. Combining heritage, innovation, and international outlook, the Province of Milan stands at the heart of Lombardy’s modern identity.

Monza e Brianza: The Province of Monza e Brianza is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is one of the youngest provinces in the country, officially established in 2009. Despite its recent administrative formation, the area has a long and well-defined historical and cultural identity rooted in the region of Brianza, known for its entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship.

The city of Monza, the provincial capital, is internationally famous for the Monza National Park and the Autodromo Nazionale, one of the most important motor racing circuits in the world. The historic centre of Monza features notable landmarks such as the Cathedral, which houses the Iron Crown, a symbol of medieval power. Across the province, towns and municipalities are characterized by a dense urban fabric interspersed with green spaces and historic villas.

Economically, Monza e Brianza is among the most productive areas in Lombardy, with a strong presence of small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in manufacturing, design, and technology. Its strategic location near Milan supports innovation and connectivity while maintaining a distinct local identity. Cultural initiatives, parks, and high quality of life contribute to the province’s appeal. Blending tradition, industry, and modern development, Monza e Brianza represents a dynamic and forward-looking territory within Lombardy.

Pavia: The Province of Pavia is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is distinguished by its historical depth, agricultural richness, and strategic position in the Po Valley. Stretching from fertile plains to gentle hills along the Oltrepò Pavese, the province combines productive farmland with picturesque landscapes, making it an important centre for agriculture, viticulture, and cultural heritage.

The city of Pavia, the provincial capital, has ancient origins dating back to Roman times and later became a prominent medieval and Renaissance centre. Its historic centre features remarkable monuments such as the Certosa di Pavia, the Ponte Coperto, and the University of Pavia, one of Italy’s oldest academic institutions. The city’s architecture and urban layout reflect centuries of cultural, religious, and intellectual development, attracting scholars and tourists alike.

Beyond the capital, the province encompasses small towns, rural villages, and vineyards that produce renowned wines, particularly in the Oltrepò Pavese region. Agriculture, food production, and small-scale industry remain key economic drivers, while cultural events and local traditions strengthen community life. Combining historical significance, natural beauty, and economic vitality, the Province of Pavia represents a distinctive and influential part of Lombardy.

Sondrio: The Province of Sondrio is located in northern Italy, within the Region of Lombardy, and is distinguished by its dramatic alpine landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and thriving agricultural economy. Nestled entirely within the Alps, it stretches along the Valtellina and Valchiavenna valleys, bordered by Switzerland to the north, offering breath-taking mountains, glaciers, and rivers that have shaped the life and history of the region.

The city of Sondrio, the provincial capital, sits in the heart of the Valtellina valley and serves as a centre for administration, commerce, and culture. Its historic centre features elegant squares, churches, and civic buildings that reflect the area’s medieval and Renaissance heritage. Beyond Sondrio, the province is dotted with small towns and villages where traditional mountain culture thrives, preserving local festivals, cuisine, and artisanal crafts.

Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of vineyards and apple orchards, plays a crucial role in the local economy, producing renowned wines and regional specialties. Tourism is also significant, with opportunities for skiing, hiking, and exploring natural parks attracting visitors year-round. With its combination of alpine beauty, historical richness, and strong local identity, the Province of Sondrio represents one of Lombardy’s most unique and captivating territories.

Varese: The Province of Varese, located in the northern part of Lombardy, is a region of remarkable natural beauty and cultural richness. Nestled between the Alps and the Po Valley, Varese offers a unique blend of mountains, lakes, and historic towns. Its landscape is dominated by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque lakes, including Lake Varese and Lake Maggiore, which attract visitors seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities. The area is also known for its charming small towns, such as Varese, Busto Arsizio, and Gavirate, each featuring historic architecture, elegant villas, and lively local markets.

Varese has a long tradition of craftsmanship and industry, combining innovation with deep-rooted cultural heritage. The province is dotted with villas and gardens, including the famous Sacro Monte di Varese, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These sites reflect centuries of artistic and religious history, making the province a centre of both pilgrimage and tourism. Local cuisine highlights the richness of Lombard traditions, emphasizing fresh, regional ingredients and hearty dishes. With its proximity to Milan and easy access to Switzerland, Varese serves as a strategic and scenic gateway, offering a harmonious balance between urban convenience and natural tranquillity.